Exploring the Different Types of Blue Sapphire (Neelam) Stones
Blue Sapphire, also known as Neelam in the world of gemstones, is one of the most coveted and revered stones in both the jewellery industry and the realm of astrology. Renowned for its mesmerizing blue hues, Blue Sapphire has been cherished for centuries, offering both aesthetic beauty and mystical significance. But not all Blue Sapphires are the same. There are various types of Blue Sapphire stones, each unique in its characteristics and origins. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of Blue Sapphire (Neelam) stones to help you understand their distinct qualities and how to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Blue Sapphire
Gemstone in Bangalore
1. Natural Blue Sapphire
Natural Blue Sapphire stones are the most sought after in
the market. These stones are formed deep within the Earth over millions of
years, creating unique and beautiful gemstones. A natural blue sapphire's colour
can vary from a deep royal blue to a lighter tint; the best stones have a rich,
vivid colour.
Features:
- Colour:
Deep, vibrant blue with natural inclusions (known as “birthmarks”).
- Rarity:
Naturally occurring Blue Sapphires are rare, making them highly valuable.
- Astrological
Significance: In astrology, natural Blue Sapphire is associated with
the planet Saturn (Shani), bringing wisdom, prosperity, and success to its
wearer.
2. Heat-Treated Blue Sapphire
The gemstone business frequently uses heat treatment. This
method enhances the colour and clarity of Blue Sapphire stones. While heat
treatment does not change the stone’s fundamental properties, it can
significantly improve its visual appeal. This treatment is often used to bring
out the stone’s blue colour to its fullest potential.
Features:
- Colour:
Enhanced blue hues, often resulting in a more vivid or uniform colour.
- Clarity:
Heat treatment helps reduce visible inclusions, making the stone appear
clearer.
- Price:
Heat-treated Blue Sapphires are generally more affordable than their
untreated counterparts.
3. Unheated Blue Sapphire
Unheated Blue Sapphires are rare and highly prized by
collectors and gemstone enthusiasts. These stones have not undergone any
artificial treatment and retain their natural colour and inclusions. The rarity
of unheated Blue Sapphire stones contributes to their high value in the market.
Features:
- Colour:
The stone’s natural blue colour, which may include some variation or
zoning.
- Inclusions:
Natural inclusions are often visible, which some collectors consider part
of the stone’s charm.
- Value:
Unheated Blue Sapphires are typically more expensive due to their rarity
and natural state.
4. Star Sapphire
Star Sapphire is a unique variety of Blue Sapphire that
exhibits a star-shaped figure on its surface. The existence of needle-like
inclusions within the stone is the cause of this visual phenomenon, which is
called asterism. When cut in a cabochon shape, these inclusions reflect light
in a way that forms a star pattern. Star Sapphires are available in a range of colours,
but the blue variety is the most well-known and cherished.
Features:
- Colour:
Deep blue, with a star pattern visible under direct light.
- Clarity:
These stones often have visible inclusions that contribute to their
star-like appearance.
- Appearance:
The star-shaped figure on the stone’s surface makes it a popular choice
for unique, eye-catching jewellery.
Blue Sapphire
Gemstone in Bangalore
5. Pink-Blue Sapphire
A rare and fascinating variety of Blue Sapphire, Pink-Blue
Sapphires exhibit both blue and pink hues in the same stone. These stones are
created under specific geological conditions where different elements influence
the colour of the Sapphire. The combination of blue and pink makes these stones
particularly unique and valuable.
Features:
- Colour:
A blend of blue and pink hues, creating a striking and unusual appearance.
- Rarity:
These stones are relatively rare and highly sought after by collectors.
- Value:
Due to their rare colour combination, Pink-Blue Sapphires are often more
expensive than standard Blue Sapphires.
6. Ceylon Blue Sapphire
Ceylon Blue Sapphire, originating from Sri Lanka (formerly
Ceylon), is one of the most famous and valued varieties of Blue Sapphire. Known
for its rich and vibrant blue colour, Ceylon Blue Sapphires are often
considered the epitome of Blue Sapphire quality. Sri Lanka has a long history
of producing some of the world’s finest sapphires.
Features:
- Colour:
Bright, vivid blue with a hint of violet.
- Origin:
These stones are sourced from the island of Sri Lanka, which is renowned
for producing high-quality sapphires.
- Popularity:
Ceylon Blue Sapphires are highly regarded in the gemstone industry for
their beauty and consistency.
7. Kashmir Blue Sapphire
Kashmir Blue Sapphires are known for their deep, velvety
blue colour, often considered the finest among all Blue Sapphires. These stones
are sourced from the Kashmir region of India, where they were first discovered
in the 19th century. Due to their rarity and the high demand, Kashmir Blue
Sapphires are one of the most expensive types of Blue Sapphires on the market
today.
Features:
- Colour:
Deep, velvety blue with an almost ethereal quality.
- Rarity:
Due to limited mining activity in the Kashmir region, these stones are
rare and highly valued.
- Price:
Kashmir Blue Sapphires are some of the most expensive sapphires in the
world.
8. Australian Blue Sapphire
Australia is another major producer of Blue Sapphires,
particularly known for its beautiful deep blue stones. Australian Blue
Sapphires are found in various regions across the country, including Queensland
and New South Wales. These stones are known for their excellent clarity and
vibrant colour.
Features:
- Colour:
Rich, deep blue, often with a slight greenish undertone.
- Clarity:
Australian Blue Sapphires are typically well-formed and have high clarity.
- Price:
They offer a more affordable alternative to the more expensive Kashmir or
Ceylon Blue Sapphires.
Conclusion
Blue Sapphires, or Neelams, come in various types, each with
its own unique qualities, colour ranges, and origin. Whether you are seeking
the rare beauty of an unheated Blue Sapphire or the captivating star-like
effect of a Star Sapphire, there is a Blue Sapphire to suit every taste and
purpose. When choosing a Blue Sapphire, it’s essential to consider factors such
as colour, clarity, treatment, and origin to find the perfect stone for your
needs.
No matter which type of Blue Sapphire you choose, you’re
sure to possess a gemstone that exudes elegance, mystique, and timeless beauty.
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